Andrology: Semen Analysis (Sperm Motility, Concentration & Morphology)
ACCREDITATION STATUS:
A UKAS accredited proficiency testing provider No. 8228
CLINICAL APPLICATION:
Assessment of semen for diagnostic purposes and assisted conception procedures.
PURPOSE OF PROGRAMME:
To assess a laboratory's ability to perform routine semen analysis incorporating sperm concentration (millions/ml), sperm motility (percentage progressive, non-progressive and immotile) and percentage normal morphology (% normal forms).
ANALYTES:
| Analyte | Default Unit |
|---|---|
| Interpretive Sperm Morphology (Online) | Classification as normal/abnormal |
| Semen Concentration (Practical) | x10^6/mL |
| Sperm Morphology (Practical) | % Normal forms |
| Sperm Motility (Online) | Percentage (%) progressive, non-progressive and immotile sperm |
MATERIAL PROVIDED: Stabilised pooled semen samples; on-line video clips; on -line digital images
DISTRIBUTIONS PER YEAR: 4
SAMPLES PER DISTRIBUTION: 4 (concentration & morphology); 4 (sperm motility); 24 sperm images (interpretive morphology)
FREQUENCY OF DISTRIBUTION: Quarterly
PROGRAMME OF ANALYSIS:
Sperm concentration and morphology data entry is via the UK NEQAS Results and Reports service for the submission of results. Data analysis is commenced 28 days after sample dispatch. Late returns are not accepted. Sperm motility & interpretive morphology: Data entry is via the Gamete-Expert.com website for the submission of results. Data analysis is commenced 28 days after sample dispatch.
DATA ANALYSIS:
Concentration & morphology: Method Related Trimmed Mean (MRTM). Sperm motility: All Laboratory Trimmed Mean (ALTM). Interpretive morphology: Consensus. All participants' results must reach 60% consensus to be classified.
PERFORMANCE SCORING:
Sperm Motility, concentration & morphology: ABC system. Interpretive morphology: Penalty points system.
PERFORMANCE MONITORING:
Laboratory performance is assessed over a rolling analytical window of 4 Distributions (12 months).
PERSISTENT POOR PERFORMANCE:
Defined as being in the Unsatisfactory Performance category for three or more successive Distributions.
Reproductive Science
The External Quality Assessment Scheme for Reproductive Science was founded in 1993 at the Department of Andrology, Saint Mary's Hospital, Manchester. In 2010 the Service became known as the UK National External Quality Assessment Service for Reproductive Science. UK NEQAS for Reproductive Science is part of the Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust. For the most up-to-date scheme information (including any pilot schemes) please contact the centre directly.
Contact Details
- UK NEQAS Reproductive Science
- Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
- Department of Reproductive Medicine
- Old St. Mary's Hospital
- Oxford Road
- Manchester
- M13 9WL